Methods, systems, and products for providing communications services by determining the communications services require a subcontracted processing service and subcontracting to the subcontracted processing service in order to provide the communications services

ABSTRACT

Methods, systems, and products receive a request for communications service at a service provider. A subcontracted processing service is determined to fulfill the request for communications service. Packets of data are subcontracted to a different service provider to receive the subcontracted processing service. A result of the subcontracted processing service is received from the different service provider.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.12/357,553, filed Jan. 22, 2009, and now issued as U.S. Pat. No.7,904,509, which is itself a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.10/720,800, filed Nov. 24, 2003, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,509,373,and with both applications incorporated herein by reference in theirentirety.

NOTICE OF COPYRIGHT PROTECTION

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document and its figurescontain material subject to copyright protection. The copyright ownerhas no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patentdocument or the patent disclosure, but otherwise reserves all copyrightswhatsoever.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention generally relates to computers and to communications and,more particularly, to processing data in a communications network.

2. Description of the Related Art

Manipulation of electronic data is important in computer networking andin communications. Often times electronic data must be manipulated forpresentation at a client communications device. That is, the electronicdata must be changed, formatted, or altered to suit the displaycharacteristics, processing abilities, and/or storage capabilities ofthe client communications device. A handheld personal data assistant,for example, often requires that bandwidth-intensive electronic data,such as on-demand video, be scaled, color corrected, and/or otherwisemanipulated for optimum presentation on the small display of thehandheld personal data assistant. Heretofore, however, manipulation ofelectronic data was usually the responsibility of the clientcommunications device—that is, the client communications device storesand utilizes one or more computer programs to manipulate incomingelectronic data for presentation on the client communications device.

Locally manipulating electronic data, however, poses problems. As theelectronic data is received, the client communications device must storethe electronic data, process/manipulate the electronic data, and presentthe manipulated electronic data to the user. This process of storing,manipulating, and/or presenting the electronic data, however, oftentaxes the limited processing and storage capabilities of the clientcommunications device. As both those skilled and unskilled recognize,when the processing and/or storage capabilities of the clientcommunications device are overwhelmed, the audio/video presentation may“stumble” and degrade the user experience. Sometimes the clientcommunications device even experiences a fault or failure when theprocessing and/or storage capabilities are overwhelmed. There is,accordingly, a need in the art for methods and systems of manipulatingelectronic data that reduce the need for locally-stored computerprograms and that reduce the need for local processing requirements.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The aforementioned problems, and other problems, are reduced by aAnalysis Module. This Analysis Module comprises methods, computersystems, computer programs, and computer program products that providecommunications services to subscribers. Each time a subscriber requestscommunications service, the Analysis Module on-demand, dynamically, andin real-time, assesses the subscriber's communications needs and thereal-time state of one or more communications networks. The AnalysisModule then ascertains the best or preferred scenario for providing thatcommunications service. The subscriber might even have a Service LevelAgreement, so this invention ascertains how to utilize the availablenetwork routing and bandwidth to satisfy the Service Level Agreement.This invention ascertains the best or preferred scenario forsegmentation of data, how that segmented data should be processed, andhow the segmented and processed data should be reassembled, againaccording to the subscriber's Service Level Agreement.

This invention discloses methods, systems, and products for providingcommunications services. One of the embodiments describes a method forproviding communications services. This method receives a request forelectronic data, and the request for electronic data originating from aclient communications device. The availability of network routing isassessed in real-time to fulfill the request. The availability ofnetwork bandwidth is assessed in real-time to fulfill the request. Apreferred scenario of segmentation, dispersion, and assemblage ofelectronic data is ascertained to fulfill the request. Electronic datafulfilling the request is communicated to the client communicationsdevice, with the electronic data formatted according to the preferredscenario

Other embodiments of this invention describes another method forproviding communications services. Here a first data stream is receivedat a computer, and the first data stream includes packets of datapacketized according to a packet protocol. The first data stream issegmented into segments according to a Service Level Agreement. TheService Level Agreement being an agreement defining parameters forcommunications service for the subscriber. At least one segment isdispersed via a network for a subsequent processing service. A result ofthe processing service is received. A second data stream is assembled,and the second data stream includes at least one of i) the result of theprocessing service and ii) another segment. The second data stream isthen communicated via the network.

Other embodiments of this invention describe a system for providingcommunications services. The system includes a Analysis Module stored ina memory device, and a processor communicates with the memory device.The Analysis Module receives a first data stream at a computer, and thefirst data stream comprises packets of data packetized according to apacket protocol. The Analysis Module segments the first data stream intosegments according to a Service Level Agreement. The Service LevelAgreement being an agreement defining parameters for communicationsservice for the subscriber. The Analysis Module disperses at least onesegment via a network for a subsequent processing service, and theAnalysis Module receives a result of the processing service. TheAnalysis Module assembles a second data stream, and the second datastream includes at least one of i) the result of the processing serviceand ii) another segment. The Analysis Module then communicates thesecond data stream via the network.

Other embodiments of this invention describe a computer program product.A computer-readable medium stores a Analysis Module. The Analysis Modulereceives a first data stream at a computer, and the first data streamincludes packets of data packetized according to a packet protocol. TheAnalysis Module segments the first data stream into segments accordingto a Service Level Agreement. The Service Level Agreement being anagreement defining parameters for communications service for thesubscriber. The Analysis Module disperses at least one segment via anetwork for a subsequent processing service, and the Analysis Modulereceives a result of the processing service. The Analysis Module thenassembles a second data stream comprising at least one of i) the resultof the processing service and ii) another segment, and the AnalysisModule communicates the second data stream via the network.

Other systems, methods, and/or computer program products according toembodiments will be or become apparent to one with skill in the art uponreview of the following drawings and detailed description. It isintended that all such additional systems, methods, and/or computerprogram products be included within this description, be within thescope of the present invention, and be protected by the accompanyingclaims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the embodiments ofthe present invention are better understood when the following DetailedDescription of the Invention is read with reference to the accompanyingdrawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustrating a Analysis Module operating within anintelligently-controlled communications network, according to one of theembodiments of this invention;

FIGS. 2 and 3 are schematics illustrating the Analysis Module on-demand,dynamically, and in real-time assessing an availability of routing andbandwidth within the communications network, according to moreembodiments of this invention;

FIG. 4 is a schematic illustrating ascertainment of a preferred scenarioof segmentation, dispersion, and assemblage of electronic data,according to still more embodiments of this invention;

FIG. 5 is a schematic illustrating fulfillment of formatted dataaccording to the preferred scenario determined in FIG. 4;

FIGS. 6-10 are schematics illustrating the Analysis Module accessing aService Level Agreement according to another of the embodiments of thisinvention;

FIG. 11 is a schematic illustrating one or more assertions that indicatethe requirements of the Service Level Agreement were satisfied accordingto more embodiments of this invention; and

FIGS. 12-14 are flowcharts illustrating methods of providingcommunications services according to still more embodiments of thisinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

This invention now will be described more fully hereinafter withreference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodimentsare shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many differentforms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments setforth herein. These embodiments are provided so that this disclosurewill be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of theinvention to those of ordinary skill in the art. Moreover, allstatements herein reciting embodiments of the invention, as well asspecific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural andfunctional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that suchequivalents include both currently known equivalents as well asequivalents developed in the future (i.e., any elements developed thatperform the same function, regardless of structure).

Thus, for example, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill inthe art that the diagrams, schematics, illustrations, and the likerepresent conceptual views or processes illustrating systems and methodsembodying this invention. The functions of the various elements shown inthe figures may be provided through the use of dedicated hardware aswell as hardware capable of executing associated software. Similarly,any switches shown in the figures are conceptual only. Their functionmay be carried out through the operation of program logic, throughdedicated logic, through the interaction of program control anddedicated logic, or even manually, the particular technique beingselectable by the entity implementing this invention. Those of ordinaryskill in the art further understand that the exemplary hardware,software, processes, methods, and/or operating systems described hereinare for illustrative purposes and, thus, are not intended to be limitedto any particular named manufacturer.

FIGS. 1-4 are schematics illustrating one of the embodiments of thisinvention. FIG. 1 shows a Analysis Module 20 operating within anintelligently-controlled communications network 22. This communicationsnetwork 22 represents just one of the possible operating environmentsfor the Analysis Module 20. The Analysis Module 20 comprises methods,computer systems, computer programs, and computer program products thatprovide communications services to subscribers. Each time a subscriberrequests communications service, the Analysis Module 20 dynamically, andin real-time, assesses the subscriber's communications needs and thereal-time state of the communications network 22. The Analysis Module 20then determines the best or preferred scenario for providing thatrequested communications service. If the subscriber has a Service LevelAgreement, the Analysis Module 20 determines how to utilize theavailable network routing/bandwidth to satisfy the Service LevelAgreement. As this patent will explain, the Analysis Module 20 assessesthe highest quality scenario, the most reliable scenario, the mostefficient scenario, the most profitable scenario, or, in general terms,the “preferred scenario” for providing the subscriber's requestedcommunications service that also satisfies the Service Level Agreement.

FIG. 1 shows the Analysis Module 20 operating within the communicationsnetwork 22. The communications network 22 includes a communicationsswitch 24 of a Public Switched Telephone Network 26. The communicationsswitch 24 interfaces with an application server 28. The Analysis Module20 is stored within the memory of the application server 28. Theapplication server 28 controls many features of the communicationsswitch 24. The application server 28, for example, may include AdvancedIntelligent Network (AIN) componentry (not shown for simplicity). Theapplication server 28 additionally or alternatively may include and/orvoice service protocols, triggers, and/or operations for a “softswitch”packet-network architecture. The communications switch 24 and theapplication server 28 interface with the Public Switched TelephoneNetwork 26 and a data network 30. Because the application server 28communicates with Public Switched Telephone Network 26 and the datanetwork 30, the Analysis Module 20 receives data via either network 26,30. The signaling between the communications switch 24, the PublicSwitched Telephone Network 26, the application server 28, and the datanetwork 30, however, is well understood in the art and will not befurther described. If a reader desires a more detailed explanation, thereader is directed to U.S. Pat. No. 5,430,719 issued to Weisser (Jul. 4,1995), with the “Summary of the Invention” and the “Detailed Descriptionof the Preferred Embodiment” sections incorporated herein by reference.The reader is also directed to U.S. Pat. No. 5,917,817 issued to Dunn etal. (Jun. 29, 1999), with the “Summary of the Invention” and the“Detailed Description” sections incorporated herein by reference.

FIG. 1 also shows the Analysis Module 20 receiving a request 32 fordata. The term “data” includes electronic information, such as, forexample, facsimile, electronic mail (e-mail), text, video, audio, and/orvoice in a variety of formats, such as dual tone multi-frequency,digital, analog, and/or others. Additionally, the data may include: (1)executable programs, such as a software application, (2) an address,location, and/or other identifier of the storage location for the data,(3) integrated or otherwise combined files, and/or (4) profilesassociated with configuration, authenticity, security, and others. Therequest 32 for data originates from a client communications device 34.The client communications device 34 may include anycomputer/communications device utilizing a microprocessor and/or adigital signal processor. The client communications device 34 mayinclude, for example, a computer (laptop, desktop, tablet, server, andother computer systems), a personal digital assistant (PDA), a GlobalPositioning System (GPS) device, an interactive television, an InternetProtocol (IP) phone, a pager, and/or a cellular/satellite phone. Theclient communications device 34 may issue the request 32 for data usingthe communications switch 24, the Public Switched Telephone Network 26,the application server 28, and/or the data network 30. The request 32for data is communicated via the communications network 22 (e.g., thecommunications switch 24, the Public Switched Telephone Network 26,and/or the data network 30) to the Analysis Module 20 operating withinthe application server 28.

The embodiments of this invention continue with FIG. 2. When theapplication server 28 receives the request for data (shown as referencenumeral 32 in FIG. 1), the Analysis Module 20 analyzes the request fordata and determines what data is requested. The Analysis Module 20 thendynamically, and in real-time, assesses an availability of routingwithin the communications network 22 to fulfill the request for data.The Analysis Module 20 also dynamically, and in real-time, assesses anavailability of bandwidth to fulfill the request for data. That is, eachtime the client communications device (shown as reference numeral 34 inFIG. 1) requests data, the Analysis Module 20 “on demand” determines theavailable routing and bandwidth. Because computer/servers and networkroutes have varying packet capacities, and because somecomputers/servers experience more congestion than others, the AnalysisModule 20 tries to determine the best or preferred scenario forfulfilling the request for data.

FIG. 2 shows various commands, queries, tactics, and instructions forassessing the availability of routing and bandwidth. The Analysis Module20, for example, may “ping” various computer devices communicating withthe application server 28. That is, the Analysis Module 20 sends anaddressable “ping” packet 36 to other computer devices communicatingwith the application server 28. The Analysis Module 20 then measures theelapsed travel time for the “ping” packet 36 to return to theapplication server 28. The Analysis Module 20 uses the elapsed traveltime to determine response times, network congestion, and/or bandwidth.Although FIG. 2 shows the Analysis Module 20 utilizing the “ping” packet36 via the Public Switched Telephone Network 26, the Analysis Module 20may also utilize the data network 30 to communicate the “ping” packet36. The Analysis Module 20 may also issue one or more interrogations 38.Each interrogation 38 is addressed to a particular computer device, andeach interrogation asks the particular computer device to assess itsactivity level. The Analysis Module 20 would then receive aninterrogation response 40, and the Analysis Module 20 uses theinterrogation response 40 to determine response times, networkcongestion, and/or bandwidth. Although FIG. 2 also shows the AnalysisModule 20 utilizing the interrogation 38 via the data network 30, theAnalysis Module 20 may also utilize the Public Switched TelephoneNetwork 26 to communicate the interrogation 38.

FIG. 3 shows more commands, queries, tactics, and instructions forassessing the availability of routing and bandwidth. The Analysis Module20 may utilize UNIX/LINUX “trace” commands 42 or tracing features tomonitor packet activity within a computer device communicating with theapplication server 28. The Analysis Module 20 may also utilizeadministrative (“Admin”) commands 44, instruction commands 46, and/orother UNIX/LINUX commands 48 to assess activity within a computerdevice, within a network path within the communications network 22,and/or within a series of paths within the communications network 22.Although FIG. 3 shows the Analysis Module 20 utilizing either the PublicSwitched Telephone Network 26 or the data network 30 to communicate the“trace” command 42, the administrative command 44, the instructioncommand 46, and/or the other UNIX/LINUX command 48, those of ordinaryskill in the art understands that the Analysis Module 20 m may use one,or both, networks to communicate each command. FIG. 3 also shows theAnalysis Module 20 utilizing a software routine 50 to help assess theavailability of routing and bandwidth. The software routine 50autonomously monitors activity within specified path(s), regions,computer devices, and/or the entire communications network 22. TheAnalysis Module 20 may also utilize allocation tables and/or routines 52to help assess the availability of routing and bandwidth. Theseallocation tables and/or routines 52 would contain relationships,preferences, and/or designations for various network routing pathsand/or various computer devices. The allocation tables and/or routines52 would identify, or even mandate, circumstances when certain routingsor certain computer devices are required. If, for example, a subscriberwishes to download a large video file, the allocation tables and/orroutines 52 may require that a particular network routing, havingcapacity to communicate the large video file, be utilized. Although thesoftware routine 50, and the allocation tables and/or routines 52, areshown operating as subroutines/subcomponents of the Analysis Module 20,those of ordinary skill in the art now recognize that each may beremotely installed on any computer device communicating with theapplication server 28.

Once the Analysis Module 20 assesses the communications network 22, theAnalysis Module 20 then determines the best or preferred scenario forfulfilling the request for data. As FIG. 4 shows, the Analysis Module 20analyzes the request 32 for data, determines what data is requested, andcompares the requested data with the on demand, real-time availabilityof routing and bandwidth within the communications network 22. TheAnalysis Module 20 then ascertains a preferred scenario of segmentation,dispersion, and assemblage of electronic data to fulfill the request fordata. That is, the Analysis Module 20 assesses the highest qualityscenario, the most reliable scenario, the most efficient scenario, themost profitable scenario, or, in general terms, the “preferred scenario”for fulfilling the request for data. If, for example, the subscriberrequires the highest-possible quality of presentation, the AnalysisModule 20 selects a combination of segmentation, dispersion, andassemblage of segments that achieves the highest possible quality ofpresentation. If, however, the subscriber requires the lowest cost whenreceiving requested data, the Analysis Module 20 selects a combinationof segmentation, dispersion, and assemblage of segments that achievesthe lowest possible cost to the subscriber, perhaps despite a degradedquality of transmission (e.g., the subscriber might tolerate “lost”packets of data, delayed delivery of packets, and/or a lesser Quality ofPresentation).

As FIG. 4 also shows, the Analysis Module 20 issues one or morereservations 52. Once the Analysis Module 20 assesses the preferredscenario of segmentation, dispersion, and assemblage, the AnalysisModule 20 may then “reserve” routing paths and/or computer devices. TheAnalysis Module 20 issues one or more addressable reservations 52 tohelp ensure the preferred scenario is accomplished. Each reservation 52instructs a networked computer device to anticipate, and perhaps onlyaccept, packets of data destined for the reserved paths and/or computerdevices. Each reservation 52 may instruct networked computer devices toanticipate, and perhaps only accept, packets having recognized headerinformation and/or packet content. Each reservation 52 may also includea chronology component that specifies a “window” within which thereserved packets must be received, processed, and/or communicated.Packets arriving outside this window may not receive preferentialaccess/routing and would be queued according to more conventionalstrategies (e.g., sequential, first in-first out, chronological).Because the Analysis Module 20 issues one or more of the addressablereservations 52, the Analysis Module 20 is able to reduce/avoid packetinfighting for the “best” path.

Now that the preferred scenario is ascertained, FIG. 5 shows thefulfillment of the request. The Analysis Module 20 has analyzed therequest for data (shown as reference numeral 32 in FIG. 1), determinedwhat data is requested, and compared the requested data with thereal-time availability of routing and bandwidth within thecommunications network 22. The Analysis Module 20 then ascertained apreferred scenario of segmentation, dispersion, and assemblage ofelectronic data to fulfill the request for data. The Analysis Module 20now communicates to the client communications device 34 the electronicdata 54 fulfilling the request. Because the electronic data 54 has beenat least one of segmented, dispersed for subsequent processing, and thenassembled as a data stream, the electronic data 54 has been formattedaccording to the preferred scenario.

FIGS. 6-10 are schematics illustrating another of the embodiments ofthis invention. FIG. 6 shows the Analysis Module 20 accessing a ServiceLevel Agreement 56. The Service Level Agreement 56 is an agreementdefining one or more parameters for the communications service(s)provided on behalf of the subscriber. The Service Level Agreement 56 maybe an agreement by and between the subscriber and a communicationsservice provider. The Service Level Agreement 56 defines how thesubscriber wishes to receive electronic data, in what format thatelectronic data is delivered, when the electronic data is delivered, andto what device (or along what network path) that electronic data isdelivered. The Service Level Agreement 56 might define pricing forvarious bandwidth needs, network utilization, delivery times, andprocessing charges. Because Service Level Agreements are, in general,known in the art, and because the content of the Service Level Agreement56 may greatly vary, this patent will not further explain the ServiceLevel Agreement 56.

FIGS. 6 and 7 also illustrate the Analysis Module 20 accessing theService Level Agreement 56. FIG. 6 shows that an electronic version ofthe Service Level Agreement 56 may be stored/maintained in a database 58of Service Level Agreements. The database 58 of Service Level Agreementsstores multiple Service Level Agreements for multiple subscribers; eachService Level Agreement corresponds to at least one subscriber. Whilethe database 58 of Service Level Agreements may be stored/maintained onany computer device communicating with the Public Switched TelephoneNetwork 26 and/or the data network 30, FIG. 6 shows the database 58 ofService Level Agreements stored/maintained within memory of theapplication server 28. FIG. 7 illustrates that the Service LevelAgreement 56 may be locally stored in memory on the clientcommunications device 34. When the Analysis Module 20 accesses theService Level Agreement 56, the Analysis Module 20 may initiate wiredand/or wireless communication with the client communications device 34via the Public Switched Telephone Network 26 and/or the data network 30.

FIG. 8 shows the Analysis Module 20 assessing the availability ofrouting and bandwidth. The Analysis Module 20 receives the request 32for data from the client communications device 34. As this patentearlier explained, the Analysis Module 20 may utilize the “ping” packet36, the interrogation 38, the UNIX/LINUX “trace” command 42, theadministrative (“Admin”) command 44, the instruction command 46, and/orother UNIX/LINUX commands 48 to assess activity within a computerdevice, within a network path within the communications network 22,and/or within a series of paths within the communications network 22.The Analysis Module 20 may also utilize the software routine 50 andallocation tables and/or routines 52 to help assess the availability ofrouting and bandwidth.

FIG. 9 shows the Analysis Module 20 formatting data according to theService Level Agreement 56. The Analysis Module 20 receives a firststream 60 of data via the Public Switched Telephone network 26 and/orvia the data network 30. The first stream 60 of data typically includesindividual packets 62 of information. The Analysis Module 20 acts uponthe first stream 60 of data by segmenting the individual packets 62 intosegments 64 according to the Service Level Agreement 56. Once a segment64 is created, if the segment 64 requires subsequent processing, theAnalysis Module 20 then disperses that segment 64 for a subsequentprocessing service. The Analysis Module 20 routes the segment 64 toother devices and/or locations via the Public Switched Telephone network26 and/or via the data network 30, and the subsequent processing serviceis performed. If the Service Level Agreement 56 specifies how thesegment 64 should be dispersed, or where that segment 64 should berouted, the Analysis Module 20 routes the segment 64 according to theService Level Agreement 56.

As FIG. 10 shows, the Analysis Module 20 receives the results 66 of thesubsequent processing services. When the subsequent processing serviceis complete, the Analysis Module 20 aggregates the result(s) 66 of thesubsequent processing service(s). The Analysis Module 20 may also accessthe Service Level Agreement 56 to determine how the subscriber wants theresults 66 assembled, formatted, and/or communicated. The AnalysisModule 20 then assembles those results 66, and any unprocessed segments64, into a second data stream 68. As FIG. 10 shows, the second datastream 68 is typically communicated via the Public Switched Telephonenetwork 26 and/or via the data network 30 to another destination. Thatis, the second data stream 68 may be communicated to another computerdevice, and/or the second data stream 68 may be communicated to a clientcommunications device (not shown for simplicity). The clientcommunications device may then view/execute/present the second datastream 68. Because the Analysis Module 20 consulted the Service LevelAgreement 56, the second data stream 68 has been substantiallyformatted, assembled, and communicated to the requirements/desires ofthe subscriber. That is, the second data stream 68 has been segmented,dispersed, formatted, transformed, encrypted, scaled, compressed,manipulated, assembled, and/or communicated to suit the subscriber'sneeds, as specified in the Service Level Agreement 56.

FIG. 11 is a schematic illustrating still more embodiments of thisinvention. FIG. 11 shows one or more assertions 70. These assertions 70indicate that the requirements of the Service Level Agreement 56 weresatisfied. When the Analysis Module 20 segments, disperses, andassembles data, each assertion 70 confirms that the segmentation,dispersion, and assemblage were performed according to the requirementsof the Service Level Agreement 56. The assertions 70 may be sent andreceived amongst “tier one” service providers and lesser tiered serviceproviders. A first tier service provider, for example, may subcontractsome aspect of subsequently processing the segment (shown as referencenumeral 64 in FIG. 9). When the subcontractor correctly processed thesegment according to the requirements of the Service Level Agreement 56,the first tier service provider would then issue the assertion 70. Thesubcontractor could then utilize the assertion 70 in advertising, inmarketing, and in other efforts to show their commitment to service,performance, and customer requirements.

FIG. 11 also shows a certified assertion 72. The certified assertion 72still confirms that the requirements of the Service Level Agreement 56were satisfied. The certified assertion 72, however, is encrypted,digitally “watermarked,” keyed, or otherwise secured to reduce theincidence of fraudulent assertions. Because the concept of assertionsmay be important to winning, and maintaining, service contracts, someservice providers will inevitably attempt to copy, imitate, or evenforge assertions. The certified assertion 72, then, would includesecurity capabilities to reduce, or even prevent, the instances ofcopied, imitated, or, in general, “forged” assertions. The certifiedassertion 72 could even be used to confirm the identity of thesubscriber and the subscriber's ability to pay (e.g., account balance,payment history, accumulation of assertions).

FIG. 11 also shows a subscriber assertion 74. The subscriber assertion74 is communicated from the client communications device. The subscriberassertion 74 again confirms that the requirements of the Service LevelAgreement 56 were satisfied. Here, however, the subscriber assertion 74is provided by the subscriber. The subscriber assertion 74 acts as“feedback” from the subscriber and, again, may be used in advertising,in marketing, and in other efforts to show a commitment to service,performance, and customer requirements. As many subscribers provide moreand more subscriber assertions 74, the volume of subscriber assertions74 acts as an indication of trust. The more subscriber assertions 74 aservice provider acquires, the more “trusted” is the service provider tosatisfy whatever a subscriber's Service Level Agreement may require.

The subscriber may be required to provide the subscriber assertion 74.Because the subscriber assertion 74 may act as “feedback,” and thus maybe very useful for advertising and marketing efforts, a service providermay require that all subscribers provide the subscriber assertion 74. Ifthe service provider satisfies the subscriber's Service Level Agreement,the subscriber is required to communicate the subscriber assertion 74.The subscriber may be required to communicate the subscriber assertion74 to the tier one service provider. The subscriber may also be requiredto communicate the subscriber assertion 74 to each lesser-tiered serviceprovider. A service provider may even deny service for any subscriber oruser that will not provide the subscriber assertion 74. Because thesubscriber assertion 74 may even be used to confirm the identity of thesubscriber and the subscriber's ability to pay, the service provider mayfurther deny service for any subscriber not providing the subscriberassertion 74. The service provider may refuse to provide service whenthe service provider cannot confirm the identity of the requester and/oran ability to pay.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a method of providing communicationsservices. A request for data is received (Block 76), and the request fordata originates from a client communications device. The real-timeavailability of network routing is assessed to fulfill the request(Block 78). The real-time availability of network bandwidth is alsoassessed to fulfill the request (Block 80). A preferred scenario ofsegmentation, dispersion, and assemblage of electronic data isascertained to fulfill the request (Block 82). A routing identified inthe preferred scenario is reserved (Block 84). Electronic datafulfilling the request is then communicated to the client communicationsdevice (Block 86), and the electronic data is formatted according to thepreferred scenario.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating another method of providingcommunications services. A request for electronic data is received(Block 88). The request originates from a client communications device.A query is communicated via a network for a first data stream (Block90). The first data stream is received at a computer, and the first datastream includes packets of data packetized according to a packetprotocol (Block 92). The on-demand, real-time availability of networkrouting is assessed (Block 94), and the on-demand, real-timeavailability of network bandwidth is also assessed (Block 96). Apreferred scenario of segmentation, dispersion, and assemblage ofelectronic data is ascertained according to the Service Level Agreement(Block 98). A routing identified in the preferred scenario is reserved(Block 100). The first data stream is then segmented into segmentsaccording to the Service Level Agreement (SLA) (Block 102). The ServiceLevel Agreement is an agreement defining parameters for communicationsservice for the subscriber. At least one segment is dispersed via thenetwork for a subsequent processing service, perhaps according to theService Level Agreement (Block 104).

The flowchart continues with FIG. 14. A result of the processing serviceis received (Block 106) and assembled as a second data stream, perhapsaccording to the Service Level Agreement (Block 108). The second datastream includes at least one of i) the result of the processing serviceand ii) another segment. The second data stream is then communicated viathe network (Block 110) to a client communications device, perhapsaccording to the Service Level Agreement. An assertion may be providedto a communications service provider, and the assertion indicates thatthe Service Level Agreement was satisfied (Block 112). The assertion maybe certified to reduce the incidence of fraudulent assertions (Block114). The subscriber may also provide the assertion (Block 116).

The Analysis Module (shown as reference numeral 20 in FIGS. 1-11) may bephysically embodied on or in a transitory or non-transitorycomputer-readable medium. This computer-readable medium may includeCD-ROM, DVD, tape, cassette, floppy disk, memory card, andlarge-capacity disk (such as IOMEGA®, ZIP®, JAZZ®, and otherlarge-capacity memory products (IOMEGA®, ZIP®, and JAZZ® are registeredtrademarks of Iomega Corporation, 1821 W. Iomega Way, Roy, Utah 84067,801.332.1000, www.iomega.com). This computer-readable medium, or media,could be distributed to end-users, licensees, and assignees. These typesof computer-readable media, and other types not mention here butconsidered within the scope of the present invention, allow the AnalysisModule to be easily disseminated. A computer program product forproviding communications services includes the Analysis Module stored onthe computer-readable medium. The Analysis Module segments a first datastream into segments according to a Service Level Agreement. TheAnalysis Module disperses at least one segment via a network for asubsequent processing service, and the Analysis Module receives a resultof the processing service. The Analysis Module assembles a second datastream, and the second data stream includes at least one of i) theresult of the processing service and ii) another segment. The AnalysisModule then communicates the second data stream via the network.

The Analysis Module may also be physically embodied on or in anyaddressable (e.g., HTTP, I.E.E.E. 802.11, Wireless Application Protocol(WAP)) wireless device capable of presenting an IP address. Examplescould include a computer, a wireless personal digital assistant (PDA),an Internet Protocol mobile phone, or a wireless pager.

While the present invention has been described with respect to variousfeatures, aspects, and embodiments, those skilled and unskilled in theart will recognize the invention is not so limited. Other variations,modifications, and alternative embodiments may be made without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the present invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A server of a service provider, comprising: aprocessor; and a memory storing code that when executed causes theprocessor to perform operations, the operations comprising: receivingelectronic packets of data from an interface to a communicationsnetwork, the electronic packets of data containing a request forcommunications service sent from a client device, the client devicerequesting a communications service provided by the service provider;determining that the communications service, provided by the serviceprovider, requires a subcontracted processing service provided by adifferent subcontractor service provider to fulfill the request forcommunications service requested by the client device; creating asegment of the electronic packets of data requiring the subcontractedprocessing service; subcontracting the segment of the electronic packetsof data from the server into the communications network for delivery toa network address associated with a subcontractor server associated withthe different subcontractor service provider to receive thesubcontracted processing service; and receiving, at the server, a resultof the subcontracted processing service subcontracted to the differentsubcontractor service provider.
 2. The server of claim 1, wherein theoperations further comprise storing the result in the memory.
 3. Theserver of claim 1, wherein the operations further comprise sending apacketized assertion endorsing the subcontracted processing servicesubcontracted to the different subcontractor service provider.
 4. Theserver of claim 1, wherein the operations further comprise receiving anassertion sent from the client device, the assertion endorsing thesubcontracted processing service subcontracted to the differentsubcontractor service provider.
 5. The server of claim 4, wherein theoperations further comprise providing a denial in response to a failureof receipt of the assertion.
 6. The server of claim 1, wherein theoperations further comprise sending the result of the subcontractedprocessing service to the client device.
 7. The server of claim 1,wherein the operations further comprise incorporating the result of thesubcontracted processing service, subcontracted to the differentsubcontractor service provider, into the communications service providedby the service provider.
 8. The server of claim 1, wherein theoperations further comprise querying for a data stream to fulfill therequest for communications service.
 9. The server of claim 1, whereinthe operations further comprise assessing an availability of thecommunications network to fulfill the request for communicationsservice.
 10. The server of claim 1, wherein the operations furthercomprise sending a reservation to reserve a routing path to the networkaddress associated with the subcontractor server of the differentsubcontractor service provider.
 11. The server of claim 1, wherein theoperations further comprise retrieving a service level agreement. 12.The server of claim 1, wherein the operations further compriseassembling the result with a data stream.
 13. The server of claim 1,wherein the operations further comprise assembling the result withanother segment created from the electronic packets of data.
 14. Theserver of claim 1, wherein the operations further comprise assemblingthe result with a single electronic packet of data.
 15. A method,comprising: receiving, at a server from a communications network,electronic packets of data sent from a client device, the electronicpackets of data containing a request for communications service providedby a service provider; determining, by the server, that thecommunications service requires a subcontracted processing serviceprovided by a subcontractor service provider; grouping, by the server,individual ones of the electronic packets of data requiring thesubcontracted processing service into a segment of packets of data;subcontracting, by the server, the segment of packets of data into thecommunications network for delivery to a network address associated witha subcontractor server of the subcontractor service provider to receivethe subcontracted processing service; and receiving, by the server, aresult of the subcontracted processing service subcontracted to thesubcontractor service provider.
 16. The method of claim 15, furthercomprising incorporating the result of the subcontracted processingservice, subcontracted to the subcontractor service provider, into thecommunications service provided by the service provider.
 17. A computerreadable memory storing instructions that when executed cause aprocessor to perform operations, the operations comprising: receiving arequest for communications service from an interface to a communicationsnetwork, the request for communications service sent from a clientdevice, the client device requesting a communications service from aservice provider; retrieving a stream of data to fulfill the request forcommunications service; determining that the communications servicerequires a subcontracted processing service provided by a subcontractorservice provider to fulfill the request for communications service;creating a segment from the stream of data, the segment containing allpackets of data that require the subcontracted processing service;subcontracting the segment into the communications network for deliveryto a network address associated with a subcontractor server of thesubcontractor service provider to receive the subcontracted processingservice; and receiving a result of the subcontracted processing servicesubcontracted to the subcontractor service provider.
 18. The computerreadable memory of claim 17, wherein the operations further comprisereserving a routing path to the network address associated with thesubcontractor server of the subcontractor service provider.
 19. Thecomputer readable memory of claim 17, wherein the operations furthercomprise incorporating the result of the subcontracted processingservice, subcontracted to the subcontractor service provider, into thecommunications service provided by the service provider.
 20. Thecomputer readable memory of claim 17, wherein the operations furthercomprise receiving a subcontractor assertion sent from the clientdevice, the subcontractor assertion endorsing the subcontractedprocessing service subcontracted to the subcontractor service provider.